January 2014
SanTan
FAMILY FUN
1
Pets provide children with valuable life lessons
“An award-winning publication” A publication of the
SanTan Sun News
What’s Inside
Pages 2-4 SanTan Family Fun Calendar
Page 5 Teen Talent Show
Page 6 Indoor and Outdoor Classes
Page 12 Just 4 Kids Sponsored by City of Chandler Recreation Division For info on sponsoring the SanTan Family Fun Calendar, email Ads@SanTanSun.com
By Alison Stanton
Crickette Gill shares her Chandler home with her sons, Deston, 12, and Denzel, 21, and a diverse menagerie of pets: three cats, two leopard geckos, one marbled gecko, an African dwarf frog, two crabs, a snail, an upside down catfish and two fire-bellied toads. Gill says her boys are the “only reason” why she has so many animals in her home. Specifically, she knew that having pets would do more than provide her sons with companionship—the animals would also teach them some valuable life lessons. “I think having pets in the home has taught my children to be more responsible and has taught them to be empathetic toward others,” says Gill, adding that both of her sons are “very kindhearted, understanding individuals.” “Having pets has also made them both more curious about the world around them, particularly my 12-yearold son. They are both immensely intelligent and taking care of others including our pets helps them build strong character.” Renee Gerber, a mom of three from Chandler, says that her family originally adopted their dog, a German shepherd named Chewbacca, in part because they were hoping to have an animal that would provide protection. “But it was also for our kids. They had been wanting a dog since our previous dog passed away, so we thought this was a good way to cover both things.” Adopting Chewbacca as a puppy five years ago has definitely taught some valuable life lessons to Gerber’s three children: Reese, 8, Regan, 11, and Brady, 15. “It has taught them to be responsible,” she says, adding that since Chewbacca relies on the family for food and water, the children are basically ensuring that he gets his needs met. “They rotate who has to feed and water the dog. He gets fed multiple times a day so they rotate through who does it,” Gerber says. “Overall, I think that they have seen
what it is to be responsible for something other than themselves. Their dog relies on them for everything and they know that.” Chip Coffey, LPC, director of therapy services at St. Luke's Behavioral Health Center, which has an outpatient center in Chandler, says that having pets can definitely benefit children. “One is that children who have pets tend to be more cooperative and sharing. It is believed this is due to the empathy they feel for their pets,” Coffey says. “Children with pets demonstrate better social skills and appear to have stronger sense of self-worth.” And for children who are an only child or have dealt with separation, Coffey says a pet can assist them in dealing with their sense of loneliness. “While children benefit from pets, there is an added benefit—the family as a whole benefits from this addition,” he notes. Robin Munger, a Gilbert mother of three daughters, says she sees first-hand how having pets helps her children— just as they helped her when she was growing up. For example, her oldest daughter Sorcha, who was diagnosed with dyslexia when she was young, has benefited greatly from being around their horses. Sorcha is now a freshman at Northern Arizona University, where she earns straight A’s, Munger says. Her younger sisters—Olivia, who is a high school junior, and Grace, who is in eighth grade—are also outstanding students, something that Munger directly attributes to having pets. “I can tell you that if you are looking for end results, I have got three best examples one could ask for,” Munger
says, adding that they share their home and property with three horses, one pony, two dogs, one cat, and six baby chicks. “All three of my daughters are straight-A students, and they are the most giving and compassionate young ladies I have ever met. I have no doubt that they will be doing amazing things in our world as they grow and contributing to our society in great ways.” Gill also feels that being responsible for pets has helped Denzel make the honor roll in college every semester. “That same hard work they put in when caring for their pets transfers over to the coursework as well.” she says. “He has maintained a 4.0 average and I think a lot of that has to do with the daily regimen of caring after his pets.”’ Alison Stanton is a freelance writer who lives in the East Valley. She can be reached at alison@santansun.com.
Children who have pets tend to be more cooperative and sharing. Resources Websites:
• parents.com/parenting/pets/kids/pets-goodfor-kids/ • helpguide.org/life/pets.htm Books:
• “My Dog!: A Kids' Guide to Keeping a Happy and Healthy Pet,” by Michael J. Rosen • “Paws & Effect: The Healing Power of Dogs,” by Sharon Sakson • “The Healing Power of Pets: Harnessing the Amazing Ability of Pets to Make and Keep People Happy and Healthy,” by Marty Becker
2
SanTan
January 2014
FAMILY FUN
January 5 AZ Railway
12 AZ Railway
6
1
2
3
8
9
10
Lapsit Story Time Family Story Time Minecraft Monday
LEGO Store Family Story Time
Community Nights Toddler Time
Preschool Story Time
Teen Talent Competition
13 Lapsit Story Time
14
15
16
17
Family Story Time
Toddler Time Mom’s Club Kids Club
Preschool Story Time
Suitcase Club
Family Story Time Minecraft Monday LEGO Kit Club
7
19
20
21
AZ Railway
Martin Luther King Day
Family Story Time Suitcase Club
26
27
AZ Railway
LEGO Club Lapsit Story Time Family Story Time Minecraft Monday
28 Family Story Time Rhythm & Rhyme
4 SanTan Family Fun Arrives! AZ Railway Family Birdwalks
New Year’s Day
22 Toddler Time Community Nights Kids Club
23 Preschool Story Time
11 AZ Railway Doggy Story Time Science Saturdays Meet the Creature!
18 AZ Railway Multicultural Festival Hiking
24
25
JCC Play Group East Valley Car Show
29
30
31
Toddler Time Kids Club
Preschool Story Time
Swan Lake
AZ Railway Meet the Creature!
Send family events and activities to STFF@SanTanSun.com
Always call to verify information as some events change or cancel after the calendar is printed.
SanTan
January 2014
FAMILY FUN 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 Arizona Railway Museum, noon4 p.m. Visit Chandler’s railway museum at Tumbleweed Park. The Arizona Railway Museum was founded and incorporated in 1983 as a nonprofit, educational and historical organization. The museum is dedicated to the railways of Arizona and the Southwest. Arizona Railway Museum, 330 E. Ryan Rd., Chandler. Display yard and building free; display cars $2 per person or $5 per family/group. For information, call Tim at 480-833-4353 or Bart Barton at 480-831-6520, azrymuseum.org.
4 Monthly Family Birdwalks, 8 a.m.-noon. Desert Rivers Audubon leads free guided bird watching tours through Veterans Oasis Park the first Saturday of every month from November-April. One-hour walks begin every 30 minutes starting at 8 a.m. Be prepared for the outdoors! Sun protection, closed-toe footwear, and drinking water are recommended. Program may be cancelled due to inclement weather. Meet at the Red-Tailed Hawk Pavilion. Instructor: Desert Rivers Audubon volunteers. Registration for the program is not required, but large groups of 10 or more must call in advance. All participants younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.
6, 13, 27 Lapsit Story Time, 10-10:20 a.m. Join in for 20 minutes of special time for babies and caregivers with books, music, and fingerplays. Recommended one child per adult so no siblings will feel left out. There will also be 20 minutes of playtime afterward. Infants 0-18 months. Hamilton Library Programming Room, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free event. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
Family Story Time, 6:30-7 p.m. Enjoy stories, songs, and fingerplays for the whole family with books, flannel board stories & puppets. Toddlers 18-36 months, preschoolers 3-5 years old, school age 6-8 years old. Basha Library Programming Room, 5990 S. Val Vista
Dr., Chandler. Free event. No registration needed. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
Free event. Contact Courtney Allen at 480-782-2730 for more information. chandleraz.gov/breaktime.
Minecraft Monday, 5-6 p.m.
8, 15, 22, 29 Toddler Time with Miss Jo,
We have Minecraft! Join us every Monday to play Minecraft. Ages 9-18. Downtown Library, Cactus Room (Adult Ed Classroom Room 219), 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free event. No registration necessary. Space is limited. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
7 LEGO Store Monthly Mini Model Build!, begins at 5 p.m. while supplies last. Visit your local LEGO Store on the first Tuesday of every month and you can learn how to build a cool mini model, and take it home—for free! Quantities are limited and offer is good while supplies last only. A new model will be available every month and will be specially themed to that month. This month’s mini model build is LEGO Snowplow. Models are not for sale and cannot be purchased. The LEGO Store, Chandler Fashion Center, 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. One free per child. Event is open to children ages 6 to 14 only. 480-899-0228, http://stores.lego.com/ en-us/stores/us/chandler-fashion-center.
7, 14, 21, 28 Family Story Time, 10-10:30 a.m. The whole family is welcome for this story time featuring your favorite stories and songs! Preschoolers 3-5 years old, toddlers 18-36 months. Downtown Library Copper Room (former City Council Chambers), 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
Family Story Time, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Join the group for stories, fingerplays, songs and bubbles. Toddlers 18-36 months, preschoolers 3-5 years old. Sunset Library Monsoon Room, 4930 W. Ray Rd., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org. 8 Community Nights in the Courtyard—Bobo the Magic Clown, 5:30-7 p.m. Family fun the second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler.
9:10-9:40 a.m. Spots, squeakers, shorter books, bells and bubbles make learning letters, counting and following direction fun. About 20 minutes long. No registration required. For ages 1 and 2. Baby siblings welcome. Basha Library Programming room, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
Toddler Time, 10-10:30 a.m. Books, bells and bubbles make learning letters and counting fun! Toddlers 18-36 months. No registration is required. Baby siblings are welcome. Hamilton Library Programming Room, 3700 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org. 9, 16, 23, 30 Preschool Story Time, 9:10-9:30 a.m. Expand your child’s love of books through stories, songs, fingerplays, flannel boards, games and puppets. Preschoolers 3-5 years old. Basha Library Programming Room, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
Preschool Story Time, 2-2:30 p.m. Get your child ready for kindergarten with stories, songs, games and fingerplays that will develop a love of learning, print awareness, vocabulary, concepts, social skills and motor skills. For preschool children 3-5, siblings welcomed! Downtown Library Copper Room (former City Council Chambers), 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
10 10th annual Teen Talent Competition, 6-9 p.m. Check out the teens with talent. Enjoy acts featuring singing, dancing, rap, musical instruments, and bands. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Admission $5. Contact Manny Padia at 480-782-2746 for more information. chandler.gov/teens.
11 Doggy Story Time, 10-10:30 a.m. Join in for a special story time where everyone can enjoy stories, songs, and fun. Even dogs are coming to this story time. Preschoolers 3-5 years old, school age 6-8 years old, tweens 9-11 years old. Downtown Library Copper Room (former City Council Chambers), 22 S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
Science Saturdays, 10 a.m-2 p.m. Bring the whole family to do a science experiment at Tumbleweed Ranch. The ranch features animals, farm equipment and historic houses from Chandler’s agricultural past. Located south of Tumbleweed Recreation Center on Pioneer Parkway, at McQueen and Germann roads. Free. 480-782-2900, chandleraz.gov/tumbleweed. 11, 25 Meet the Creature! 11-11:45 a.m. In this interactive program, children will get up close and personal with live animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Each program features different fascinating animals from around the world. Registration required. Children ages 2-12 must be accompanied by a paid adult. Instructor: Lisa Limbert of Lisa’s Creatures & East Valley, Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Resident fee: $6 Nonresident fee: $9. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.gov/eec.
13 LEGO Kit Club, 4-5 p.m. We supply a variety of skill level kits for kids to put together during this hour of fun. Ages 5-12. Basha Library Programming Room, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler. Free. No registration needed. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
15 Family Night at the TRC—Mom’s Club of Chandler NE presents “Winter Wonderland,” 5:30-7 p.m. The first and third Wednesdays of the month enjoy a variety of different recreational activities and entertainment. Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Rd., Chandler. Youth $2 resident, $3 nonresident; teens $3 resident, $5 nonresident. For more information
3
contact Michael Fenzel, 480-782-2908. chandler.gov/breaktime.
Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids, 10-11 a.m. The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting. We’ve teamed up with National Geographic Kids to create activities and games that focus on discovery through play. Ring in the new year with some singing and dancing fun for everyone. Learn the new Kids Club song and talk about pets that are short or very, very long! Chandler Fashion Center, in the Gap wing near the Food Court, 3111 W Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Open to the public. Free. 480 812-8488, ShopChandlerFashion Center.com/KidsClub/.
17 C-Town Suitcase Club, 10-11 a.m. Travel though time and explore everyday objects, designed for 3-5 year olds and their caregivers. This winter’s theme is “Keys, Fees and Knees.” Chandler Museum, 300 S. Chandler Village Dr., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2717, chandlermuseum.org.
18 Chandler’s 19th annual Multicultural Festival, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sponsored by the mayor, City Council and the Human Relations Commission, and in partnership with Intel, the Chandler Multicultural Festival invites you to come out and experience a fun-filled day of art, music and dance, while learning a little more about our neighbors and our rich cultural diversity. Downtown Chandler Library Plaza, 22. S. Delaware St., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2665.
Hiking, 10 a.m.-noon. Come learn the basics of hiking, including area geology, flora and fauna, and most importantly, safety! Your hiking education will include fun, exercise, team building, family bonding, and appreciation of natural resources. This program includes time in the classroom, individual evaluation and experiences on the trail. Offsite hiking location TBD after class. Ages 12 and older. Instructor: HIKE IN PHX, LLC. Environmental Education Center, 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler. Instructor fee: $50; Resident fee: $14; Nonresident fee: $19. 480-782-2890, chandleraz.eec.
See Calendar, Page 4
4
SanTan
January 2014
FAMILY FUN
Calendar, From Page 3 20 Martin Luther King Day. Most offices and recreation facilities of the city of Chandler will be closed and no classes will be held.
21 C-Town Suitcase Club, 10-11a.m. This winter’s theme is “Keys, Fees and Knees.” Travel back through time to sing, hear stories, and discover everyday objects from the past and present. Program includes a special take-home item. Ages 3-5. Chandler Museum, 300 S. Chandler Village Dr., Chandler. No advance registration required. Free. 480-782-2717, chandlermuseum.org.
22 Community Nights in the Courtyard—Face Painting & Craft Night, 5:30-7 p.m. Family fun the
friend Jungle Jill will show you some of the special and unique animals in her family. Songs and animal fun for everyone! Chandler Fashion Center, in the Gap wing near the Food Court, 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Open to the public. Free. 480 812-8488, ShopChandlerFashionCenter.com/ KidsClub/.
24 JCC Play Group, 9:30-11 a.m. JCC Playgroup Kabbalat Shabbat with the preschool, followed by time for play for the little ones and conversation for their adults. For caregivers and their children younger than 2. East Valley JCC, 908 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler. Free for all. Contact Pam Morris, ECE director, 480-897-0588, info@evjcc.org.
East Valley Car Show, 6-9 pm.
second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Community Center, 125 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Free. Contact Courtney Allen at 480-782-2730 for more information. Chandleraz.gov/breaktime.
Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids, 10-11 a.m. The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting. We’ve teamed up with National Geographic Kids to create activities and games that focus on discovery through play. Persephone’s
Do you enjoy showing off your car or enjoy looking at other car enthusiasts autos? Enjoy the lively music and check out the wheels, from classic oldies to smoking ‘vettes and everything in between, or bring your cool car and put it on display. Music will be provided by Eagle Entertainment. Fulton Ranch Towne Center, west Ocotillo Road and Arizona Avenue, Chandler. Free. No registration required. 623-582-9599, fultonranchtownecenter.com/ news-and-events/east-valley-car-show/.
27 LEGO Club, 4-5 p.m. We supply the LEGO! You supply the imagination! Ages 5-12. Basha Library Programming Room, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler. Free. No registration needed. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
Chandler Fashion Center, in the Gap wing near the Food Court, 3111 W Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Open to the public. Free. 480 812-8488, ShopChandlerFashionCenter.com/ KidsClub/.
31 Moscow Festival Ballet presents “Swan Lake,”
28 Rhythm & Rhyme, 11:30 a.m.-noon. We will enlighten and educate young children with an entertaining style of musical fun! We use rhythm instruments, sing-along and action songs, dancing and movement to teach your children the love of music! Feel free to bring a bottle of water. Toddlers 18-36 months, preschoolers 3-5 years old. Basha Library Programming Room, 5990 S. Val Vista Dr., Chandler. Free. No registration needed. 480-782-2800, chandlerlibrary.org.
7:30 p.m. In “Swan Lake,” Prince Siegfried comes of age and his subjects come from far and wide to celebrate and to swear allegiance to their new ruler. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets: $38, $46 & $52. 480-782-2680, chandlercenter.org.
SanTan
FAMILY FUN
Coming in February: Preparing children for their first dental appointment
29 Kids Club, powered by National Geographic Kids, 10-11 a.m. The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting. We’ve teamed up with National Geographic Kids to create activities and games that focus on discovery through play. Let’s get ready, get set, it’s time to talk about your pets. Dogs, cats and parrots too, are a part of our families and really love you!
32,000 Square Foot, Air-Conditioned Facility with an Indoor Heated Pool
ACCOUNTING • PAYROLL • SALES TAX • 1099S
We offer classes ages 6 months and up:
• Gymnastics • Tumbling • Trampoline • Martial Arts • Dance • Cheer • Ballet, Hip Hop, and Musical Theater • Adult Bootcamp • Swimming
We offer MLK Day & President’s Day Camps! Check out our website for more information and registration
Great after school activities for kids of all ages! Independent gymnastics classes for 2 year olds offered!
Small Business Owners: RECORDS IN SHAMBLES? YEAR END RELIEF! Free, yes, free accounting for the entire 2013 when you enroll in our low cost monthly service. Call or visit us for details.
480-895-5724 1445 S Arizona Ave., Ste. 13 • Chandler Located Near Sam’s Club
$30 value. New enrollment only. Not valid with any other offer. Please enter promo code SANTANSUN at time of registration. Expires 3-31-2014
480-820-3774
www.aspirekidsports.com 50 S. Hearthstone Way, Chandler 85226 — 1 Block W of Chandler Fashion Center
www.FreedomFromAccounting.com
SanTan
January 2014
FAMILY FUN
5
Annual teen talent show set for Jan. 10 By Tracy House
The public is invited to experience the talents of teens from Chandler and around the Valley as Chandler Center for the Arts hosts the 10th annual Teen Talent Competition, 6 to 9 p.m. Fri., Jan. 10, presented by the city. Manuel Padia, one of three recreation teen coordinators at Tumbleweed Recreation Center, and his team are making the arrangements for producing the show. This is Padia’s first year running the talent show, a long-standing tradition in Chandler. “I think it’s always good to establish a program and then have it be successful on an annual basis,” says Padia. “The community looks for those kinds of things.” The talent competition is for teens ages 12 to 17, focusing on sixth graders to high school seniors. Last year 24 kids participated in the show and Padia anticipates that many or more for this year’s talent show. Teens had to register and audition for the show. Acts include vocals, bands, dancing and instrumental sections. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., is providing the venue for the show, which is open to the public. “We definitely invite folks to come on out and support our teens here in town and watch a great show,” Padia says. Admission is $5 for the two- to three-hour show. Money from admission covers the cost of producing the show and will be used to support future activities and offset other costs associated with the teen program. While Padia is directing, he says the Chandler Center for the Arts has been wonderful to work with and have helped
with the production. The facility has been donated at no cost. This year’s judges include Tyler Severance, world and national yo-yo champion, recording artist Sya (Sara Ramos) and Joe Zazueta, a producer for Cox Channel 7. These are all first-time judges, Padia comments. “We’re trying to mix it up and bring some different folks there.” He’s hoping that some of them may even perform during intermission. Padia mentions that some of the acts have been in the show four years. There is a first place and runner-up cash prize for each talent category. He says there are teens from all over the Valley participating in the show, not just from Chandler. In addition to the teen talent show, Padia says there have been a lot of bands interested in playing and the teen program has created a Battle of the Bands competition coming up 6 to 9 p.m., Fri., Mar. 14. “This will be the inaugural year.” He mentions it will be held at the TRC and is open to bands in and around Chandler. Ashley Swail will be coordinating the band competition which is looking for eight bands. “We’re really trying to rebuild the teen program, and grow and offer some new things,” Padia mentions. When Padia started with the teen program kids were surveyed to see what they really wanted out of a teen program. There are several teen classes specific to the feedback received. They include skateboarding, build your own board, Mix masters, video gaming history and music. ”We’re trying to find out and talk to the kids and see what’s of interest to
Beginner through advanced lessons for all ages. Lesson horses available.
them,” Padia explains. “In doing the survey, music was something that popped up and so we wanted to go that way and incorporate activities to have that music element involved.” Instead of teens just hanging out, Padia says the staff wants to incorporate some strategies to get the kids involved to get more out of the experience and offer broader classes. Upcoming events include a Super Bowl party, drop-in events and more for teens to enjoy and engage. For more information about the talent competition or teen programs contact Padia at 480-782-2746 or email manuel.padia@chandleraz.gov. Tracy House is the news editor for the SanTan Sun News. She can be reached at tracy@santansun.com.
6
SanTan
January 2014
FAMILY FUN
Environmental Education Center offers a variety of programs The Chandler Environmental Education Center (EEC) at Veterans Oasis Park kicks off the new year with a variety of indoor and outdoor classes for all ages. Advanced registration is required and can be completed online at www.chandleraz.gov/registration or in person at any Chandler recreation facility. A complete listing of classes and fees is published in the quarterly Break Time brochure and posted online at www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime. Fri., Jan. 10 “Come Alive Story Time with Ms. Diana—Nature Education”
world. Children ages 2-12 must be accompanied by a paid adult.
Sat., Jan. 18 “Introduction to Vegetarian Cooking”
9-9:45 a.m. (Ages 2-3) 10-10:45 a.m. (Ages 3-5) Music and stories are an important part of shaping a child’s life. Through interactive stories, music, games and drama, the program builds positive attitudes, character, self-esteem and values.
Tue., Jan. 14 “Girl Scout Badge: Geocaching”
10 a.m.-Noon (Ages 16 and older) Learn the basics of preparing meals in this introductory level class. Learn to prepare easy, gluten-free, vegetarian meals while saving time and energy. Fresh ingredients will be used to create simple and delicious dishes. Class will conclude with samples to taste and recipes to take home.
Fri., Jan. 10, 17, 24, 31 “Outdoor Adventures” 3:30-4:30 p.m. (Ages 11-16) Come out and learn about camping, fishing and wilderness survival techniques.
Sat., Jan. 11 “Meet the Creature” 11-11:45 a.m. (All ages) In this interactive program, children will get up close and personal with live animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Each program features different fascinating animals from around the
4-6 p.m. (Ages 8-12) Discover the excitement of geocaching. Scouts will use GPS units to locate geocaches throughout Veterans Oasis Park. Be prepared for the outdoors. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring a water bottle. Nonscouts are welcome to attend, but will not receive a badge.
Sat., Jan. 18 “Nature Photography” 9 a.m.-Noon (Ages 7-15) Learn the basics of nature photography, such as exposure and aperture, focusing on nature and wildlife subjects, capturing the shot, and composing to create compelling photographs. This program will cover classroom instruction as well as outdoor experiences. Students must bring their own camera, battery and memory card.
Sat., Jan. 18 “Hiking” 10 a.m.-noon (Ages 12 and older) Come learn the basics of hiking, including area geology, flora and fauna, and most importantly, safety. Your hiking education will include fun, exercise, team building, family bonding and appreciation of natural resources. This program includes time in the classroom, individual evaluation and experiences on the trail. An off-site hiking location will be determined after class.
Wed., Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5 “Beginning Birding”
Sat., Jan. 25 “Goofy Garden Fun”
6:45-7:45 p.m. (Ages 16 and older) Veterans Oasis Park is considered one of the premier birding spots in the Valley, with more than 150 identified species. Join this three-part, beginner level class and discover the where, when and how of birding in central Arizona. Topics include bird identification, equipment and birding hotspots. This workshop includes an off-site field trip.
10-11:15 a.m. (Ages 3-5) Join the group each month for some goofy garden fun. Learn gardening basics through crafts, games, experiments, songs and more. Each month features a different concept of learning with a nature theme. Activities may include vegetable painting, planting an edible plant and more. Fee is per child, with one unpaid adult permitted.
Sat. Jan. 25 “Meet the Creature”
The EEC is located at 4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd., within Veterans Oasis Park on the northeast corner of Chandler Heights and Lindsay roads. Call the EEC Program Hotline at 480-782-2889 to get updates on the status of programs. You can also call 480-782-2890 or 480-782-4900 for additional information, or visit www.chandleraz.gov/veterans-oasis.
11-11:45 a.m. (All ages) In this interactive program, children will get up close and personal with live animals while receiving a fun lesson in wildlife rescue and conservation. Each program features different fascinating animals from around the world. Children ages 2-12 must be accompanied by a paid adult.
OFFERING PERSONALIZED
medicalcare family FOR THE WHOLE
with Chandler’s Premier Board Certified Family Medicine Physician
No doctor? New patients welcome! No insurance? No problem. Call us for an appointment today. Gil M. Holland, MD, FAAFP Laura Leal, FPN-BC
480-814-1100
• Comprehensive health care for infants and children • Immunizations and vaccines • On-site blood draws • Sports and athletics physicals • Women’s health • Aesthetic services: Botox® • Adult wellness • Acute and chronic care
3200 S. Alma School Road, #204, Chandler, AZ 85248 | www.ocotillofamilymedicine.com
Limited Time Offer:
BOTOX
®
$9.50 per unit
All Aesthetic Services Administered by a Board Certified MD
January 2014
R E T S I G RE NOW FOR ! SPRING
SPRING Registration Deadline: Monday, Feb. 10th
7
8
SanTan
January 2014
FAMILY FUN
Just4Kids Chandler Recreation Offers A Variety of Fall Activities! Register for Winter Classes! The spring Break Time magazine outlining all-ages recreation classes, youth camps and special events for March, April and May will be available beginning January 17. You can pick up a copy of Break Time at libraries and city offices as well as aquatic and recreation centers and online at www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime. For more information, call 480-782-2727.
This month’s Just4Kids Page is sponsored by:
Personal Training at the Tumbleweed Recreation Center Beginning January 2014 Make your fitness a priority and learn to workout smarter with a TRC Personal Trainer. Start today and choose from a variety of training options. To begin your personal training experience, contact Linda Ayres at 480-782-2907 or Linda.Ayres@chandleraz.gov.
The City of Chandler Recreation Division
Lap Swim at Hamilton and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Centers Closed until January 6 Free
19th Annual Chandler Admission! Multicultural Festival at the Downtown Chandler Library Plaza Saturday, January 18 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Join the City of Chandler and the Human Relations Commission as we celebrate the diverse culture of America. Experience music, dance, art on stage, in exhibits, and booths throughout the day. Food and beverage will be on sale as we showcase cultures from around the world! Visit www.chandleraz.gov/special-events for more information on the event schedule.
When the pools reopen on January 6 you can purchase your annual lap swim pass at a discounted rate until January 9! The pass will be available for $170 (that’s a 15% savings!) and the pass is valid at both Hamilton and Mesquite Groves Aquatic Centers. Guests must be a Chandler resident to purchase.
Senior Center Variety Show Auditions Monday, January 6 & Tuesday, January 14 Our Annual Variety show is around the corner (March 12 & 13) and we’re looking for the best talent in the Valley! Call Eliza Haws at 480-782-2741 to sign up for an audition.
Community Nights in the Courtyard at the Community Center Wednesday, January 8 & 22 5 - 7:30 p.m.
Free Admission!
Join us for some free family fun with Bobo the Magic Clown on the 8th and Face Painting on the 22nd! The Community Center will be hosting Community Nights in the Courtyard on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month! Contact Courtney Allen at 480-782-2730 for more information!
Stay Connected! Follow us on Instagram and Twitter at @ChandlerRec, and on Facebook and YouTube at Chandler Recreation for the latest news. Check out the January/February episode of “Come Out & Play, Chandler!” on YouTube. This episode features the fitness opportunities available within the Community Services Department. You can sign up for the Chandler Recreation monthly newsletter by texting ChandlerRec to 22828. For more information, call 480-782-2727.